Let’s face it – it’s easy to get caught up in the noise and frenzied level of activity around us, much of which can be hurtful to us in some way. I believe we pay a price for soaking up the chaos and angst of the world around us. But do we have a choice?
I believe we do have a choice to separate ourselves from the clamor. It’s called calm abiding.
To me, calm abiding is being aware of ourselves and our choices in the moment. When we pay attention to our thoughts and feelings, we can choose the ones that make us feel whole and complete. This allows us to commit the wisdom of our own worthiness and unique value to every decision and action we take. This means we can choose to say no to the thoughts and actions that make us feel inadequate and less than.
I think calm abiding is practicing acceptance of the world, our lives, and ourselves – trusting that the unique contribution of our presence on this planet is enough to celebrate.
Anyone with me here?
I think you make an excellent point. There is so much information and “noise” that comes at us on a daily basis, that’s it difficult to absorb it all. And the majority of it is negative…which causes me to feel down and negative about myself and the world around me.
Do you have any good techniques the help with “calm abiding”? It’s sometimes difficult to stop and be aware when things are moving so fast.
By: kwidener on January 24, 2010
at 4:52 pm
Hi Kelly.
Thanks so much for responding.
I recommend you take 3 to 6, 2 to 5 minute breaks during the day to breathe deeply and focus on relaxing your body.
Sit quietly where there are few to no distractions while you do this and “see” every muscle in your body loosening.
Before you leave your “relaxation break”, ask yourself: “What is the most important thing for ME right now”, “What do I need?”
Then take that action right away or as soon as you can.
Notice what has changed after a week of doing this and take notes as you move forward with this technique.
Feel free to adjust the technique to work best for you.
You may want to join my upcoming tele class on Calming your Mind. You can learn more at: Carol@ADDInsights.com
Good luck!
By: ADDinsights on January 24, 2010
at 5:33 pm
Calm vs. Crazed … I struggle with it everyday. Add ADD to the mix and it can be debilitating! I meant to respond to this a few days when it was posted and ‘craze’ got in the way.
I find it hard to hit the pause button once the day has it’s grip on you. Logically one understands what they should do to break out of those habits but still they creep up.
Is there something you can suggest?
By: rickotero on January 27, 2010
at 9:01 pm
Thanks, Rick.
Your dilemma is common and shared by many.
One thing I have found works is to find a small practice you can easily accomplish wherever and whenever.
What could you do in a couple of minutes?
You could take 3 deep breaths and think of your worries and body tension melting away with each extended exhale.
Do this during transitions (leaving the office or home, before or after lunch, before leaving work for the day, etc.)
Lose your stress and tension – find fresh energy for you next task or event.
Let me know how this works, Rick -
Carol
By: ADDinsights on January 28, 2010
at 2:09 pm
Yes, Kelly – in fact I just finished an article on calm abiding called “Peace Within Ourselves” which addresses your question of techniques. It especially highlights the technique of meditation and gives you a step by step procedure to follow. In addition, I have a brand new 4 week teleclass called: “You CAN Learn to Calm your Mind”
By: ADDinsights on February 2, 2010
at 10:04 pm